An Ode to Urban Decay...

For those who happen to know the latest love of my life comes in the form of a lovely silver tone with purple accents. Yes folks.. I'm talkin' Urban Decay... I stumbled upon this precious jewel of a brand while I was on a straight mission to revamp my makeup collection. M.A.C. had fulfilled it's destiny and I grew weary of 'I thought this worked good' items. From UD's primer potion, to the luxe shadows, and 24/7 liners which glide on so perfect and smooth; I have yet to try a cosmetic from them that I did not like. My latest addition to my already too darn steep collection is the lipstick and Urban Decay's most popular selling titled item (color as well) is- Midnight Cowboy... I have the shadow and now the lucious lipstick! It is a shimmering beige tone that goes awesome with a high gloss, or alone.

Before I even think about putting an shadow on- no matter who the manufacturer is.. The primer potion must go on the lids. This allows crease-free, long wearing shadows with vibrant colors to STAY.

On my eyes, the most beautiful... with the title of 'Roach', which sounds absolutely disgusting... is the most gorgeous color I have encountered in a long while! It's usually hard to find reddish brown colors that don't have too much of either. This was the perfect combination and worked wonderfully as a crease color!!!

When Im feelin' oily, or like my makeup simply needs a boost.. I reach for my De-Slicked blot powder. Though the color is almost white with a hint of lavender tone, it goes on colorless and picks up all the oil...making your make up look fresh a while longer. Who doesn't want that!? It also doesn't hurt that it comes in a gorgeous compact. I have dropped this thing a ton of times and havenever had the power fall or crack up- nor the case. Definitely worth every penny!

Do you remember the days when you used to have to burn the tip of your eyeliner to get it to glide? Oh but let us not forget you had to wait about 30 seconds after you did that for it to solidify itself again or else you'd have not only a mashed up pencil, but a mess on your eyelids. Those days are forever gone with 24/7 Glide-on Liner. These pencils are the truth! They go on true to color and don't wipe off too easily. However, when it is time for it to come off... & They do come off without having to rub your eyes out!

For those women of color who say, 'What the heck do I need a bronzer for? I have enough color....' I thought the same thing for a while until I took a look at my pictures when I wore makeup and looked almost like there was no warmth to my skin tone. I didn't look pale but it looked like something was missing! Until I found this wonderful Baked Bronzer...in, 'Toasted'. Now, this doesn't give you that fake lookin' sun BURNT glow with way too much shimmer although I am sure they have that as well. However, if that's what you're lookin' for- this ain't the one for you. I just needed a hint of warth that was matte, and that is exactly what I got with this and I love it!

As you all know I must pencil my no eyebrow having self up with faux ones *lol* This wax with the Brow Box is awesome! After I use an angle brush to apply the brow, I go over it with the wax that is contained at the bottom pop out drawer, and voila! No more rubbed off eyebrows, and it darkens them a bit to make them more noticeable. The box also comes with a nice little applicating angle brush, and small, small, small tweezers. Just in case there is hair, that shouldn't be there. Ingenious!!!

When I am not wearing lashes, I like to front like mine can hang with the big gals.. well with the Multi-benefit Skyscraper mascara... they actually can. Oddly enough when a rep at Sephora showed me the tube, and was going to use some on a customer i did the same thing I normally do, as i have no brows, or lashes *lol* I though, 'what the ufck-ever..." until I saw him apply it... OMG! Yes... it is now in the collection and I love how it curls and lifts lashes while making them that much longer- which is definitely a BENEFIT to me!

When it's all said and done, and this girl is done having fun... All this stuff HAS to come off. Now I reach for my Clean & Sober makeup remover... This cleanes all my makeup off without the hard rubbing or sting. Smells wonderful while doing what it's supposed to. Though it's definitely one to reckon with MUFE's Sens-Eyes.. it does a darn good job second to. Either way it works.. wonderfully at that.

The point of it all is Urban Decay makes some FANTASTIC products! if you haven't given them a try- please do when you get an opportunity. This was my ode.. hope you liked it and saw something you want to give a try.

Until next time...

Beautiful Lies...

And we're off!!! I decided to do a section dedicated to the myths that surround beauty, and hair. There is so much information out there on how to do this and that, or why this that and the third isn't working. Again, I emphasize we are all different but there are common rules that need to be laid down in order to understand and decipher what is and is not real when it comes to beauty... I will explore the top 3 (in my opinion) myths when it comes to beauty and hair... Shall we???

Myth #1. In order to have healthy hair you can't relax it. - Some people use the word "perm" but it's called relaxer. Now to the nitty gritty. Healthy hair is attainable no matter HOW you wear your hair. It's all about maintenance. If you get a relaxer, you must maintain it. Period. Otherwise you're asking for breakage, and damage. And another thing... Your hair needs to be healthy before you get a relaxer anyway. See the pic on the left. Why put a chemical on damaged hair??? It is not in the condition it needs to be in to handle a chemical anyhow. Blame the bad stylist who put it on you, and yourself for allowing it, and then blaming the product!!! The product didn't damage your hair, bad practice did. The purpose of the relaxer is to 'loosen the curl'- not to make it straight. If the hair is straightened too much- it is OVERPROCESSED, and now porus. Which can also occur in coloring hair as well. See the pic on the right. Yes, your hair is in a more healthy state when it's natural, but if you do not know how to care for your natural hair, it'll break, and get damaged just like chemically processed hair. MAINTAIN your hair, and you'll have healthy hair. Period.

Myth #2. I can color my hair by box and it'll be fine. First, let's briefly go over how "PERMANENT" color works. There are 10 levels when it comes to color... 1 being black, and 10 being blond. In between is 5- red... Now when coloring hair you must understand what you can and CANNOT do (and maintain healthy hair...) In order for someone who has darker hair to go to a lighter color you must lighten your hair. Whether is it by "bleach" or a high volume peroxide. The color that is in the darker hair must be LIFTED.

<---- If you don't understand this wheel. DO NOT try to color your own hair!!!!! Meaning, you cannot slap a red color on top of your dark tresses and expect the color on the box. No sweetie, you'll have hints of red on your dark hair that may only be visible in the light. Blondies... no you can't just slap red on your head and think it'll be red either. You have a yellow tone, so your hair will turn orange... you need violet to cancel out yellows and green to cancel out red tones etc etc etc. And no you cannot color your hair jet black, and go back blond. Not without a pair of scissors you won't. Color does not lift color!!! Point is folks:If you do not understand how color works, or how the color wheel does play a HUGE role in the tones, and colors you'll get... leave hair coloring to the professionals. P.S. Box colors have lots of ammonia. Though there are some that don't but there are many more that do, and that ammonia is no bueno for your hair, that leaves an ashy cast on the hair when you finish. Henna is nice, but you must be careful with it as well, as it is a metallic. Relaxers and metallics are no go.

#3. It doesn't matter what kind of shampoo I use. OOOOHH contraire mu-fraire... There are not so many shampoos out there for so many purposes for no reason. Brands? That's on you to choose, but nothing less than the best for this beauty nut. Kera Care, Enjoy, Kenra, and fifty million other awesome lines out there. The key is finding what is going to work for your hair! Someone with fine hair shouldn't be using a moisturizing shampoo unless they have dry scalp: why? Because this will weigh their already fine hair down even further and make their hair stick to their heads. Use lots of product? A Clarifying shampoo would be best because it cleanses without stripping the hair of what it needs. Believe it or not many people think they have dandruff when they really don't. Shedding of the skin cells happens on the head just like anywhere else on the body. The best way to a nice fresh scalp is to use a comb to "get up" that skin prior to shampooing... that is sticking to the head, so that when you shampoo you also get that skin off your scalp! Viola! No Dandruff!!! And yes, conditioning is essential. Conditioning keeps the hair supple, detangles, and as long as you choose the right kind- helps maintain healthy hair.

How do you know all this Nikki??? Well let's see... did I mention I'm licensed stylist with ethics and I believe in educating clients? A stylist that just 'does your hair' and doesn't give vital information like 'RED is high maintenance' or have ethics like, 'your hair is a bit too damaged for chemical treatment...' is not a very good stylist.

Here are some things to look for in your stylist:

1. Professional- yet friendly.

2. Consults with you about the condition of your hair, and where you want to go with it.

3. Listens to what you want in a style but also informs you of what is and is not flattering. helps you make decisions on what's best for YOU- your hair, lifestyle, and maintenance.

4. Is not only out to make a quick buck, but have a lifetime client- because they are just that good at what they do: resulting in what you love, a head of healthy hair, and knowledge of how to maintain that beautiful hair in the event they are not availible.

Just know that I does this. OK... Now that we've covered that... On to the Make-up Myths...

Myth #1. People who wear makeup don't like how they look. Now if you wear so much makeup you no longer look like YOU- then maybe you're wearing "too much." The purpose of makeup is to enhance your already there features. False lashes, lip plumpers, and things of that nature are extras. They don't change you. they enhance. I love how I look...

Myth #2. Men like women who do not wear make up. *ROTFLMBAO..hahah hahhahhah hahahhh ...ok.. hehh..lol.. ok ok... ok...* Whew, had to catch my composure. For the record I just wanna say that's BUH-SHYT. I believe men prefer the "natural look" but believe you me- that's makeup made to look natural often times. Who wants to wear a fierce dress and look "natural"? Umm yeah glam is for glam wear, and for some glam is daily. It's up to you though! I have said before that it is a talent in wearing make up- Not looking like you have it on. I promise you if you ask a man who his top five women who are up there on their look good list is- chances are they are "made up" in some way... If a man say he don't like make up that's probably because he don't want you getting looks and/or attention from any other guys; Ask me how I know. *ding* No, it's not that you're not naturally beautiful, makeup simply plays up your features. Period. Nothing more- nothing less. If anything- a man should be happy you take the time to polish yourself up, so you're looking your best, and he's the one who has YOU on his arm. Taking over an hour may indicate a problem though *lol* SO- Yes, ladies wearing only eyeliner, lipgloss, and mascara still constitutes you wearing MAKE UP budda. Stop livin' in denial and explore some other items to perfect your 'natural' look. Here's natural looks... but guess what? They are still wearing makeup.

I never said you should look like you work at M.A.C... then again that wouldn't be a bad thing anyway that says you got skillz... sometimes. *lol*

Myth #3. I can't wear makeup because... Kill the excuses ladies. MEN wear makeup see http://www.rupaulsdragrace.logoonline.com/better than us sometimes. Yes, both of the pix below are MEN... Kill your excuses ladies.

OK! Prescriptives blends for your tone. Many ways of coverage powder, liquid, mineral. Need sunscreen? Heck it's in a lot of foundations and products these days. There are consultants all over Sephora, M.A.C., and Macy's counters. ASK for help if you need it. I promise you nobody came out the womb knowing how to apply their perfected shadow. Practice, be prepared to wipe it off and start over if it wasn't the look you wanted... get good products (for you) and see what works and doesn't work for YOU. Either way- stop with the excuses! Beautify your outside to match your inner beauty. There is no such thing as "day/night" make-up. Make-up is about fun and enhancing your representative, and goodness- making a lasting first impression on the world. How many people that you do not know- will walk by you today? Exactly. You may very well not care what they think, but I know what they won't be saying about Nikki. Goes like this: "Damn she was lookin' fugged up." *lol*

Until next time...

Living Beautifully... By the Bottle...

So, my confessional was that I did feel froggish and leapt on the $200 Clarisonic cleansing brush. Now, most products are carrying the timeline of a week, or so before you see some results, I have noticed an improvement in texture, more than anything and it's only been about 3 days. Yes, it feels nice in the shower, and makes use of your cleanser. By using less, I guess your investment goes further too. Now, I do not by any means have buyers remorse, but I do think a cost of 85 would be reasonable, but apparently they felt otherwise *lol* - but oh well. I am sure soon enough I should have facinating stories to tell you all about it. I'm sure with repeated use, cleansing gets better as well. I was never one to expect a miracle in a bottle... I'm lying.

I want to discuss some things I have used, along with their supposed purpose. Trial & Result. Shall We???

This Crap in a Box... Now I have struggled with hyperpigmentation for a while. After using this on my skin for about a month and a half I tossed it. It didn't seem to be working at all, and believe it smells just like BLEACH too. luckily I didn't spend more than about 5 dollars on it. It was recommended by a friend whom had said they used it and it worked for them. Oh well.

Mama Lotion had so much hype behind it. Supposedly almost made for those suffering (I hate when they say that though...lol) from the dreaded melasma. I decided to go ahead and try it. Well- I think I used this for about the same amount of time, and yet- again saw no results. And this mess is NOT cheap. $45 bucks down the drain. I coulda had a V-8. *smh*

What kind of trial would this be without good ol' Lie-Active??? This 'Lean on Me' method worked for about 2 weeks. You see the trick to proactive is it becomes a dependency. In most cases the purpose of the person seeking the product is to correct and then prevent it from reoccuring. But lie-active is all about continuous use. If you stop... you're right back where you started. A cash cow extraordinaire!!! Beware... I had a friend try this and his face bumped up so terribly he had to take off from work for 2 days for his face to calm down. In the word of his boss, "He had to go home. Do you remember that Martin Lawrence episode when he fought that boxer Tommy Hearns??? Well-that's what he looked like- don't use that proactive mess on your face." So I guess it dubs as an industrial cleaner.

No, I'm not going to bash Ambi. Ambi is actually a decent product. Cleaning wise and leaving the skin soft. I'll give it 3.5 stars out of 5. I still however comma will not buy it anymore. Maybe.



So that's just a few out of a billion things I have tried. I just want to know when they will seriously come up with a product that IS for ALL SKIN TYPES that works. *sigh* A day in my life... What have you tried to correct any skin issues you may have had? I would like to know.


Until Next Time...

Essentials, Proper Skin Care for You & Wish Lists...

As humans we love to put our best foot forward most of the time. What we also must understand is that beauty doesn't start with the make-up you applied, but with what is under the makeup, and inside your hot-body! Taking care of your insides are important as your outside. I'm no heath specialist, so I'll keep in the inner portion simple. Watch what you eat, drink water (even though I hate to- I do...), and stay positive regardless of age, weight, height, color or sex! Moving along... The skin that you intend to present is yours for the rest of your life so why not use the products that help to protect it and keep it supple? A good skincare regimen is always in order to fight blemishes, breakouts, and keep your skin looking bright and healthy. I'm not here to push what I use on you, but let you know what helped me. General essentials are: A deep cleanser, regular cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and believe it or not- sunscreen. Doesn't have to be specifics from my regimen, but what WORKS for YOU; and everything ain't for everybody- contrary to most folks who are taught to tell u 'what u want to hear' at the beauty counters beliefs. As stated, we are all DIFFERENT. That difference calls for different regimens, and yes that means different products as well.

As a side note, people with tan, and more brown tones in their skin are more prone to hyperpigmentation, or uneven skin complexions. I speak from experiencing it myself. There wasn't one product I don't think I didn't try that wasn't within my budget to try to correct it. It can be discouraging slapping fifty million creams on your face and looking in the mirror a few weeks later to see no change. So, I have somewhat learned to live with it, but I have also been doing research on products that can help the appearance of it. I have also been a nut about doing reviews on products before purchasing them since I had wasted so many precious dollars as it was. I am currently happy with what I am currently using, which I will discuss, as I have seen results.


Nikki's Skin Essentials: RX for Brown Skin Bright & Even regimen (Exfoliating cleanser, toner, botanical brightener, and moisturizer) and Dermalogica Barrier repair, multiactive toner, protection spray, and medicated clearing gel. Oh and let my hypercolored butt not forget what has been causing me to see no results... I now have added SUNSCREEN to the mix and the one I use is PeterThomasRoth, and at $28.00 per 3 oz bottle... 30 SPF. Non greasy and no oil, and is perfect for the face. Since I have been following this regimen I have seen results in my face texture, moisture level, and brightness. Most of these items sans Dermalogica, can be found at Sephora http://www.sephora.com/ and my total regimen runs me about *cringe*... $160.00 for the Dermalogica portion, and believe you me though- the full size bottles last FOREVER! The Brown skin RX is going to run me $145.00. So I'll basically be every 9 months or so spending about $200.00-$300.00 on my face, and I look at it, and now think just like this when buying something for my personal care: i'm worth it.


I am only putting the ones I use daily, and frequently... I still have lots more Dermalogica, as it is an AWESOME line. Cleans without scents, so that means less irritation, and CALMS my over reactive skin down.
Day & Night/ RX for Brown Skin Kit- 55$ (month supply, as I was just testing it, but ended up liking it, so I will be buying the full size soon)
(Night Only) Barrier Repair- $36.00
Soothing Protection Spray- $33.00
MultiActive Toner- $32.00
Medicated Clearing Gel- $45.00 http://www.dermalogica.com/
*Perk products- *$9.00 Burts Bee's Deep Clean (Soap Bark, and Chammomile)- This cleanser is THA TRUTH- leaves skin soft and very clean.. light tingle when it's done, but not that burning tingle. After using it- it doesn't give you that I scrubbed my face clean- clean, but my face is clean- clean.


Now you may be looking at me googly eyed like- 'Are you crazy???' No, I'm not. I care about my skin, and I wasn't fortunate enough to be able to use the over the counter stuff and have it work for me. So, I gotta do what I gotta do to have that supple skin too. I tried home remedies, and about a billion other products that claimed to help. From drying and dangerous hydroquinone enhanced products, to black soap, to the pure cocoa butter soaps and sticks... Neutrogena dries me out. Oil of Olay made me well.. oily, and regular old Dove, made me feel like I had a film on my face still. So I had to move on from the at home and OTC cleansers. Yea, it hurt my funky pockets but.. it is what it is. I have now found my balance of products that work for me.


I have a friend who used to have frequent breakouts, and stuggled with them until she discovered Biotherm... which at the time- worked for her perfectly. Her diligent routine had stopped the breakouts, and cleared her skin up beautifully. When she told me she loved it, I called myself looking into it at Macy's, saw the price tag and promptly walked right back out. Now that I look back on it, it was not realistic for me to just spend that kind of money, but when you have spent hundreds on "cheaper" products and gotten no results- It wouldn't kill you to invest in something that is backed by the people who sell it. Like the results? You love it? Well, keep it, and keep supporting the brand. No results...? OK, return it and continue your journey with your money back. If you get a backing on the products- you can't lose unless you're too lazy to take it back after 3 months of it not working for you. This is why I love shopping at places like Sephora... they back what they sell, and have a fantastic return policy. 3 months of a properly performed regimen is more than enough time to see some results. If you don't see them, or plain don't like it- take it back...it's that simple.


My Wish List: I have heard so many great RAVES- about the ClariSonic face brush... how it cleaned the pores up, and allows regimen care and products to get deeper in the skin...which someone like me needs. That sucker is $195.00 though. One day when I'm feelin froggy- I'll leap.


I'd like some of your input of your own skin care regimens. Some of the products you liked, disliked, and why. The results you've gotten with the line or lines, you stick with and what you'd like to try.


Until next time.....

Get Your Mind Right... It's Your Look... Perfect it!

They say that what we project on the outside can tell us what's going on in the inside... Yet again, I agree, but I also disagree. I know people who put best foot forward outside, but are torn down inside... People who step out "homely lookin' " but feel perfectly fine inside. Now what some of you are thinking may be.. "hmmm" what in the world are people are Saks Fifth feelin' like- or as Madea (Tyler Perry) so eloquently put it... "They say money can't make you happy, but I'd sure in hell like to find out." I have had my days where when I made myself up. ..and felt prettier, better, even more positive, and days where my "makeup" made me feel no different.

What I had to change was not my make up, but my thoughts to be a better person, and see the sunshine in everything... I mean just that. Katt said...EVERYTHANG??? Eh-vEr-Ra-Thang. What I am trying to convey is this: Now that you have the basics down, and know your style.. perfect it. Nothing wrong with adding some color to your gloss. Nothing wrong with throwing some curls in your straight hair. It doesn't hurt to throw a little curveball now and again. If you feel like you're doing way too much with your newer look, then take it one addition at a time. I didn't begin my look full mode on. OH GOODNESS NO. I had neutral colors and stuck with them, until I got a little curious about what that blue would look like on ME. After that I did enroll in cosmetology, so what in the heck good is a beautician in training without AWESOME looks??? The rest is history...

Here are some tasks for my plain janes...

1. Find or pick 2 colors that you feel wouldn't look good on you (via a makeup store or purchase), write down why they wouldn't, and try them out- or better yet if you go to a make up store, have an artist use it on you in a minimal manner... and prove yourself wrong.

The key when it comes to color is HOW MUCH to use.... especially if you just began wearing makeup. Otherwise you will feel like you're in make-up overdrive.

2. Use your neutral tones with the 2 new colors you have. See what blending techniques work for you with the neutral make-up, so that is not demanding attention you may not be ready for. Just a subtle, yet nice change to a regular neutral look... Just a bit of jazz if you will. Try some blue with that brown and see what a gorgeous color combo you have!

3. UNDERSTAND that a lot of people think because you wear make-up, you're ashamed or not confident in your natural beauty. When that is SIMPLY not true. Some people know they are gorgeous... others have to be told... however, I have never met a woman that make-up touched and didn't have that natural beauty enhanced. EXAMPLE: Have you seen Halle Berry in all her glory without makeup?!?!? Yeah- I'm just sayin'... (95%...lol)

As you grow more comfortable wearing makeup you'll probably venture out and try different colors that are WAY out, and even learn how to incorporate that color into the daily look. The purpose in this is having a happy medium. Knowing when to pull out the big guns, and show 'em what you got, or when to K.I.S.S... The point of the neutrals you should have is to have a perfected "daily" look... adding these colors to them, simply give you another avenue when you feel like making another statement outside of... I'm cute. maybe, I'm FINE...

Conclusion is, to wear makeup and be confident about it, you have to get your mind right. You're an individual, and there is nothing wrong with makeup. If you opt not to wear it. More power to you... However, don't bash those who do, then get mad when they are out and about getting compliments because their shadow is gorgeous, or that color on their lips is sooooo pretty. You are you- with or without make-up. Make-up does not change YOU! Beauty shines through the make-up. True beauty is on the inside... let that reflect on the outside. Only you know how much is too much for you, and nobody else. As for Nikkay... there are never enough pretty shades for these gorgeous globes or lips!!! *lol*

Until next time...

The Basics... Cost = Quality??? I Think Not- Not All The Time Anyway...

Hello Everybody,

Some of us wonder exactly what the hell do I need all that makeup for? Well for the most part a lot of us don't "need" the make up, but do own it. As for myself, I simply love different colors, products, textures, looks and whatnot- that's why I have so much crap. Besides, i'm a friggin' stylist for goodness sake- it'd be a crime not to be armed with a serious set of fabulous MESS. *lol* The sickening part is there is ALWAYS something new to test out; So- it's a no win situation when you love makeup as I do. (I confess.....) Oh the hell well.

I want to discuss the 8 BASICS of what any chick SHOULD have in their mini makeup bag, kit, conglomerate... whatever it is you've got. And if you own none of the above- You need to go get the below: I'll tell you why in Un Momento...

1. Powder or Sheer Foundation (with applicator of course)
2. Neutral color eyeshadow "quad" +1 Black eyeshadow- For the make-up inclined a quad contains 4-colors. Neutral will usually be peachy, brown, tan and/or possibly goldish tones.
3. Eyeliner... A dark brown, or black
4. Mascara- A nice brown or black again

5. Lip Liner- A nice shade that doesn't yell LOOK.
6. Lipgloss - Sheer or lightly colored

7. Eye Shadow Brush- That squeegee thing that comes with the shadow does nothing but make a mess.
*8. BLUSH If you're feelin' frisky put 8 in the bag too. (This is optional because some people seriously don't like nor do they wear blush- As for myself... Blush is not an option. It's critical!!! *ha ha*)

And there you have it! All of those items can fit in a medium sandwich ziplock bag if it's too much like right to have a makeup bag. Now... on to WHY you should have these items.

1. A TRUE MATCHING COLOR IS A MUST! The purpose of the powder and/or foundation is so you can have a clear, set face. You do not have to pile it on, nor do you need to be an expert, but to even out your complexion, as not many of us were born flawless- and if you think so... I'mma need you to do some research. Not to say Maybe it's Maybelline, but to understand that maybe it is... no, no wait- it IS Maybelline most of the time- dammit.
*P.S. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE... if you do nothing else in your life, blend your foundation and powders below your jawline to your neck if need be. There is nothing worse than seeing an unblended line at the jaw. It looks like someone can just come peel your makeup off... that or you stuck your head underneath a talc machine. Blend damn you.

2. The purpose of the neutral quad is so you can have the "daily" look- and the black is there to turn day makeup into night-wear... As you can see most "dark" makeup is worn at night. Unless you're constantly in avant garde mode- which some of us are, but for the rest of you- who dare not walk on the wild side- neutral will do.

3. Eyeliner- to outline those lucious lookers and make them stand out... Hello.

4. Unless you were born with those long RIMMEL'S... get some. There are so many out there plumping, extending (which I need), double extending, thickening... etc.

5. Line the lips to give some definition to them. Unless you don't need any definition, but most folks need some. It also give you an outline of where the lipgloss needs to go.

6. Nothing like some good ol' lipgloss. Gives a sheer shine to the puckerer's...

7. The shadow brushes are so you can apply your shadow with the right precision. Those "q-tip" looking applicators SUCK. Sorry... they do. They also make you use more makeup than needed. So please invest in a brush so your investment in the shadow will last longer.

8. Blush makes the whole face stand out, and defines those beautiful cheekbones you have... (or made with proper contouring application... ;o)

You can more than likely get all of the above for a low, low price of.....

Well the whopping price of.....
Uhhhh well... that the technicality (tek-ni-kal-i-tee):

Makeup costs differ depending on your style, taste, and like Capitol(ism) One- What's in your wallet... The good thing is there is something out there for everybody, no matter what your pockets look like. Holla if you hear me.

* Rounded figures

Cheapie AKA cheaper list:
Covergirl, Tru-Blend, L'Oreal Foundation $10-$13.00
Covergirl Quad: $7.00- 14.00
Eyeliner: $3.00
Mascara: $6.00
Lip Liner: $3.00
Blush: $5.00
Lipgloss: $5.00
Shadow Brush: $4.00

*TOTAL $28.00 - $50.00

http://www.target.com/

For those who may be a little more concerned with quality or whatever your reason is- I affectionately named the other list-

Professional AKA Pocket Rape List:
M.A.C. foundation: $26-$40.00
M.A.C. palette (4 shades): $45.00
M.A.C. lip pencil: $13.00
M.A.C. ProLash Mascara: $12.00
M.A.C. Lipglass: $14.00
M.A.C. Blush: $18.00
M.A.C. Large Shadow Brush: $29.00

*TOTAL $139 -$175.00

http://www.maccosmetics.com/

Now, I by no means want you to run out and withdraw $200.00 out of your account to accomodate the M.A.C. list. (Why 200? Tax fool... damn that tax!!!) I am simply saying that makeup can get really expensive if you want the "upper quality" products. However, being the smart folks you are, I am sure you can mix & match items and find what works best for you, and your pocketbook. I must confess I still and will have PLUS keep- a few cheapie items, and a lot of retardedly priced items that supposedly did a better job, but didn't- So I went back to the cheapie. There are some things a high price cannot buy, and peace of mind is one of those things. Go to Walgreens, Target, or anywhere that carries WET n' WILD BLACK LIQUID LINER. Because IT IS THE TRUTH!!! Goes on smooth, dries fast and is BLACKER than BLACK. Guess what? All it costs is: 3 bucks. Compare that to M.A.C's $15.00 ashy lookin' black fluidline-which I did own, and did not replenish... why? Cuz, I HATED IT!!! That is all. Point is, there are some things that you simply cannot compromise nor equate the quality- in cost.. and vice versa. It is your skin, and your look. You be the judge of what is and is not compromisable!!!

Until next time....